Step by Step Extraction
(videos)
Locate: Using our eyes, ears, thermal imaging camera and boroscope to see inside the wall to find exactly where they are before we cut
Scoop Bees: and drop into new home. We do not use a vacuum unless we absolutely have to because we find that it causes too many bee deaths. We would rather avoid the risk of harming the queen or her minions.
Joey cuts the blocking to expose the hive in the eaves. This is one of the most common locations. Bees fit easily through the 1/4" venting screen.
Transfer Comb: Gently cut comb and add to hive frames
Interior: Sometimes the bees are best accessed through interior sheetrock & we have to put up curtains to keep the bees from flying around the house.
Move hive to apiary: to pollinate & make honey
A few days later, the bees attach the comb to the frame. Soon the landing board will be littered with rubberband scraps
Harvest honey:
Honey pouring from the extractor